Shanghai Evolution Free Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
What makes our Shanghai City Free Walking Tour a must-do? It’s simple! This tour offers a fantastic introduction to the city's history and culture, all while being budget-friendly.
This immersive experience invites you to dive into the city's rich history and vibrant culture while soaking in stunning views along the iconic Huangpu River. From its humble beginnings as a fishing village to its rise as a bustling metropolis, Shanghai's transformation is an incredible story just waiting to be told.
On this engaging tour, you'll have a time travel on the Suzhou Creek, where you can snap a photo with Shanghai's beloved symbol on the Instagram-Famous Bridges, explore the glamour of The Bund, and immerse in the stunning sights, smells, and sounds of ancient Yu Garden Bazaar. Each stop is chosen to give you a taste of the rich cultural tapestry that defines Shanghai. Join our enthusiastic guides as they share fascinating stories that bring the Magical City to life!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Every direct booking helps us to support social causes and sustainable tourism in our destinations. Join us in creating positive change - learn more at #MonsterImpact.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Suzhou River
The Suzhou River, also known as Suzhou Creek, is a significant river in Shanghai, China. Historically, it served as an important transportation route and was once heavily polluted due to industrialization. In recent decades, extensive cleanup efforts have revitalized the river, making it a scenic area with parks, walking paths, and cultural attractions. It now symbolizes Shanghai's transformation and commitment to urban sustainability.
Shanghai Post Museum
Opened in 1924, it was once the largest post office in Asia and the heart of China's international communications. Its grand, classical design—with the iconic clock tower and majestic sculptures—was meant to show the world the power and reliability of the modern postal service. It's still a working post office with a beautiful public hall. Inside, you'll find a stunning grand hall that still operates today, and a museum that showcases everything from ancient courier systems to vintage mail trucks.It perfectly symbolizes old Shanghai: a meeting point of East and West, tradition and breathtaking modernity.
What‘s Included
English-speaking Tour Guide
Guided Shanghai City Tour
Personal expenses
Guide tips and gratuities
Options
Shanghai Evolution Free Walking Tour
Reviews
31 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Shanghai back in the days until today
938kathrink,May 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing tour with Jane! We would definitely recommend to join the tour if you are interested to learn about Shanghai‘s history and development. The tour was perfectly planned with supporting historic pictures, scenery spots and local Snacks to try. Thanks again Jane! :)
Authentic Shanghai: Hidden spots and great context
allexjesus,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We did a tour with Jane in Shanghai and she was honestly the highlight of our trip. What we loved most was how she kept us grounded; she was constantly pointing out where we were in relation to the rest of the city, which helped the history actually make sense instead of just being a list of dates. Jane is also incredibly honest. If we asked something super niche that she didn't know, she’d just say so—which I really preferred over someone making up an answer. She also took the time to chat with us about what daily life is actually like in China today, answering all our questions about things that seemed so different from life back home in Europe. A few things that really made the difference: The Pace: She planned reasonable breaks at spots where there was actually somewhere to sit. My partner was especially grateful that Jane could keep the explanation going while we caught our breath. Unexpected Knowledge: She has a great interest in local flowers/plants, which was a lovely surprise. We learned things we never would have expected! Hidden Spots: She took us through back-alleys and "hidden" spots that you definitely won’t find in an online guide. Plus, her food recommendations were 10/10. If you want a guide who is authentic, down-to-earth, and knows the city inside out, definitely look for Jane!
Good
185jibina,May 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was such a nice journey with Monster tours Alice and she explained the evolution of China very well
Best way to get to know new and old world Shanghai
Robbo2101,May 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The team at monster Shanghai has put together an amazing walking tour. It provided many insights to my Shanghai visit that I would never have known with much research myself. They are well experienced guides and made my short stay very memorable indeed thanks Jan and team much fun indeed!
A fantastic tour and introduction to Shanghai!
780katye,Apr 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I did a similar tour in Singapore and when I saw there was a tour for Shanghai I booked straight away. It was a great introduction and to get more information about the city. Jane was an excellent guide and was very helpful. I would recommend doing this trip!
Excellent Experience
tayalvarun84,Apr 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent Guide! It was a small group so the guide gave us a lot of personal attention. She was knowledgeable and friendly. We took the Shanghai city walking your - please prepare yourself for a brief history of Shanghai and some walking. Kindly note that though this is a free tour, we should be ready to tip our guide at the end of the tour. Enjoy!
Nice tour well spent time with Jane
889elissah,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very nice guide, Jane showed us all around, we had essentially a "private" your! Great tour from a lovely lady!
great tour excelente guide
alessandroaG5330TS,Apr 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00great tour ! excelent guide ! Jane is very enthusiastic and has an unconventional itinerary
Walking tour with Jane
oliveroX2892ER,Apr 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jane was incredibly knowledgeable and super easy going.
From the reception, she showed a lot of kindness and ease of giving an understanding of the historical and cultural dynamics.
saludese,Apr 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent guide, very friendly and with a complete knowledge of the city and the main historical and cultural facts. Recommended 100%
From US$5.00
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Operated by Monster Day Tours Shanghai